Columbus Fire Department

  History:

The Columbus Fire Department was organized October 26^th, 1877. The officers were a chief engineer, assistant chief engineer and fire warden. The mayor and councilmen were Fire Wardens Ex-Officio. The department was divided into three companies: Hose Co., Ladder Co. and Engine Co. Each company elected its own officers: foreman, assistant foreman and secretary-treasurer.

This type of organization continued until 1918 when the three companies were merged to form one department very similar to what is in present day operation. The officers consisted of a chief, 1^st and 2^nd assistant chiefs, a secretary and a treasurer. The chief officers were appointed by the City Council and held office as long as they conducted themselves in a manner benefiting their office.

In 1945, the Chief was granted authority to appoint three captains who retained their rank as long as they conducted themselves under office requirements. In October of 1975 the office of 2^nd assistant chief was rescinded

and the chief was allowed to appoint three lieutenants to serve at the discretion of the chief. In October of 1976, the offices of secretary and treasurer were combined into one position, which was added to the duties of the full time fire inspector in 1999. In 2001, the city council approved the request of the fire chief to appoint a second chief officer. This allows the chief to have the training performed by both of his assistants.

The department consists of 40 members when at full strength. Training drills are held on the 2^nd and 4^th Tuesdays of each month. Regular monthly meetings are held on the 2^nd Tuesday of each month. Driver operator training is held on the first Tuesday of each month for veterans and those who would like to become driver operators. In months including five Tuesdays the last Tuesday is reserved for vehicle extrication practice. In addition to protecting lives and property within the city we also have a rural territory consisting of one full township and a large part of five others, extending into three county associations - Columbia, Dodge and Dane.